Courtois: Boss Haz it wrong
THIBAUT COURTOIS has risked angering Antonio Conte by questioning his decision to take off Eden Hazard against Manchester United.
Hazard, who set up Willian’s opening goal in Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat, was hooked in the 73rd minute and replaced by Pedro.
Boss Conte explained Hazard’s withdrawal was tactical and argued that the Blues star was tired.
“I think he had finished his energy,” said Conte.
“In the first half, he ran a lot, second in the same way, but when I see that a player is tired, you have to change the situation.”
However, Courtois said: “I have no explanation for subbing Hazard, but it is the manager’s choice – I can’t look into his head.
“Players like Eden should have 90 minutes on the pitch. He can always bring something extra offensive.”
Jesse Lingard’s winner came just two minutes after Hazard went off.
And Courtois hit out at his team-mates for failing to hold on to the lead, as they had against Barcelona.
Courtois said: “After our goal, we conceded a counter-attacking goal just like last Tuesday. We should never have lost the match.”